Cycling

CYCLE ZANZIBAR (1 - 10 days)

Where is Zanzibar?

Situated approximately 73 km (45 miles) from Dar-es-Salam and 35km (22 miles) off the East Coast of Africa, Zanzibar is made up of 2 principle islands. The main Island is Unguja measuring approximately 1,464 km2 while Pemba, measuring approximately 868km2, is the second Island. Zanzibar is just South of the Equator at 6o South and 39o East of the Prime Meridian.

To locate the Islands internationally, they are approximately 2,587 km (1607 miles) due North of Durban in South Africa, and approximately 10,180 km (6,323 miles) South East of London.



CYCLE ZANZIBAR…..The Spice Islands by Bike, takes place on the bigger of these 2 Indian Ocean Islands – Unguja. Following a route that roughly circumnavigates the coastline of the island, groups ride on a variety of roads from tar to dirt roads, beaches and bush tracks.

The whole idea is to have fun, to relax and see the island as many locals would – on a bicycle and in a Daladala, a form of local transport. The distance ridden each day depends on the individual cyclists. The backup vehicle follows the group carrying all the luggage as well any bikes that may not be being used on the day.

Basic Itinerary

Day 1
Arrive – Straight to hotel in Stone Town

Day 2
Drive out of Stone Town to Jozani Forest. View Red Collabus monkeys and Mangrove Swamps. Start to ride from here, head south mainly on tar roads. Very easy and relaxed riding conditions.

Late afternoon arrival. Time permitting, view Dolphins

Day 3
A day of mixed riding and driving as the route heads north up the coast Another easy riding day combining tar road, coastal tracks and dune paths.

Arrive at lunchtime. Overnight at a lodge with the beach at the verandah door

Day 4
Another day of mixed riding and driving, with more of an emphasis on driving, however there is the opportunity for some superb beach riding as well as dune track riding through extensive groves of palm trees.
Arrive early afternoon.

Overnight in a wonderful lodge right on the waters edge with stunning views and in a very peaceful setting. Spend 2 nights here.

Day 5 (Please Note: depending on the final program, this day may move to the day after Day 6)
R&R around the pool or go for a walk, paddle or visit the local village

Day 6
Dhow trip across a wide open bay to the other side where its back on the bikes for a wonderful, easy ride on gently undulating tar roads to the next lodge which is set right on the beach overlooking crisp white beach sand.

Arrive late morning.



Day 7
This is the longest day of the trip, starting with a short ride on a really nice dirt track. Then its into the Daladala and on up North till the start of the final dirt track stretch which winds through lush green coastal bush till it meets the main West Road to the North. Then back into the Daladala to the overnight stop at a lodge perched above the sea on the furthermost tip of Unguja Island.
Arrive late afternoon.

Day 8
Head South down the West coast to the Spice Plantations where the wonderful world of exotic spices and fruits becomes a scintilating tactile and sensory experience!

Continue South to Stone Town visiting ancient Sultans Baths along the way.

Day 9
Morning tour of the ancient Port City of Stone Town – the very centre of the Spice and Slave Trade on the African East Coast for many centuries.

Afternoon at leisure or flight out.
Night flight out or Gala Dinner

Day 10
Extension to the tour or depart for home for those on morning flights.

INCLUSIONS & EXCLUSIONS
(Please Note: This is an abbreviated list. Full list of Exclusions and Inclusions provided with proposal)

Included in the Tour
> For those flying from South Africa – return flights inclusive of airport taxes
> Airport and other transfers related to the Itinerary.
> Full board and accommodation on a per person sharing basis. Single supplements apply.
> Back up vehicle to transport luggage and those who wish to sit out a day of riding.
> Bicycles and helmets

Excluded from the Tour
> Departure Taxes/Visa from Zanzibar
> Flights for guests arriving from countries other than South Africa
> Drinks and beverages
> Insurance – Personal Accident and Loss Cover to be organised.
> Trips, tours and transfers which do not form part of the final Itinerary
> Specialised clothing